Are you in the market for a laser engraver? If you are new to laser engraving, you are probably wondering which laser engraver is the best.
To make things easier for you, I have researched countless machines and come up with a list of my favorite laser engravers. I have included everything from professional machines to small, home, desktop engravers.
Our Top 3 Best Laser Engraver Machines of 2024
Best Overall
TEN-HIGH CO2 Laser Engraver Machine with Exhaust Fan USB Port
The TEN-HIGH CO2 engrave machine is a user-friendly laser cutting machine. It is a great machine for home crafters and professional artists.
Premium Choice
Glowforge Plus 3D Laser Printer – The Ultimate Hobby Laser Cutting & Engraving Machine
Glowforge has designed one of the best laser engravers on the market. It has a user-friendly interface, making the machine simple and fun to use.
Great Value
NEJE 3 N30820 Laser Engraver and Cutter Machine
The NEJE 3 Laser Engraving Machine was designed for professionals who engrave at home. The machine is small and lightweight, making it ideal for small DIY projects.
What is a Laser Engraver?
A laser engraver is a machine that utilizes a laser to engrave and cut. Some machines only work with flat surfaces, while others give you the ability to engrave curved surfaces. You can also use machines that cut to make 3D objects.
Below are some different types of materials you can use with laser engravers. Just beware, all machines are different.
- Acrylic
- Cardboard
- Cork
- Delrin
- Fabric
- Glass
- Leather
- Metals
- Paper
- Plastic
- Rubber
- Stone
- Tile
- Textiles
- Wood
Why You Need the Best Laser Engraver
Laser engravers a so much fun to use. You can create countless custom designs. And most engravers also cut, allowing you to create 3D products. If you are creative and enjoy making personalized gifts and projects, you should definitely look into buying the best laser engraver.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Laser Engraver
There are so many laser engraving machines on the market, it can be hard to choose. Before you make your decision, you want to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for.
When searching for the best laser engraver, you will want to take into consideration:
- Compatibility
When buying a new laser engraving machine you do not want to spend any additional money upgrading your current system. Make sure the machine is compatible with what you have. Are you planning on using a PC or a Mac? Do you currently have a design software you prefer using? You can find some machines that are highly compatible, while others only work with certain devices and software.
- Work Area
Are you looking to engrave small objects? Or are you looking at creating large pieces of artwork? The best laser engravers come in a wide range of sizes.
- What Materials Can the Machine Engrave?
Do you know what types of materials you are going to engrave? Make sure the machine is capable of handling the material. There are quite a few machines that cannot cut metal. Not all machines can engrave curved surfaces, either.
- Size of the Machine
Do you have an area next to a window you can dedicate to the laser engraver? If so, you may consider purchasing a large machine. If you plan on moving the machine around a lot, look for a smaller, portable machine.
- Manageability
If you are new to laser engraving look for a machine that is beginner-friendly. Some of the best laser engravers have a large learning curve making them difficult for beginners to use.
- Functions
Are you only wanting to engrave? Or are you also interested in CNC based router engraving and/or 3D printing too?
- Ease of Assembly
You can find several of the best laser engravers that are already preassembled, while others can take a lot of knowledge and patience. Check to see if assembly is required. If so, is it easy?
- Cost
The best laser engravers can vary greatly in price. Before you begin your search, know your budget.
The 10 Best Laser Engraver Machines
1. Glowforge Plus 3D Laser Printer – The Ultimate Hobby Laser Cutting & Engraving Machine
The Glowforge is the most popular home laser engraving machine. It is user-friendly and powerful. It is ideal for creating personalized gifts and unique products.
Why We Like the Glowforge:
Many users claim this is the safest and best laser engraver on the market. It is so safe, it is often used in schools.
- 30 Minute Setup
Plug in the machine, and it is ready to use in as little as 30 minutes.
- Simply Automatic
Glowforge has made this machine super easy to use. It has autofocus and an automatic print setting. Simply choose your design and pick your materials and click print.
- Compatibility
You can use this desktop laser printer with your PC, Mac, phone, or tablet.
Pros and Cons of the Glowforge:
Pros:
- 30 Minute setup
- Material detection
- Free software
- 3D Engraving
- Automatic print settings
- Autofocus
- Live camera preview
Cons:
- Cloud-based software
- Issues with code generation
- Little to no customer support
2. MYSWEETY 2 in 1 7000mW CNC 3018 Pro Laser Engraver Machine
The MYSWEETY 3018 Pro was designed with the absolute beginner in mind. It is a great choice for anyone interested in learning more about engraving.
Why We Like the MYSWEETY 3018:
This engraver gives you the option of engraving with a laser or a spindle.
- 2-in-1 Machine
The MYSWEETY 3018 Pro is a 2-in-1 machine. You can use the machine for both laser engraving and spindle engraving.
- Offline Controller
With the offline controller, you do not need to connect to a computer. You can manually adjust X, Y, and Z axis locations.
- Adjustable Focus
Rotate the laser left or right to adjust the focus. The smaller the focus, the more accuracy you will have.
Pros and Cons of the MYSWEETY 3018:
Pros:
- Adjustable laser focus
- Affordable
- Aluminium frame
- Laser and spindle engraving
- Can be used without a computer
Cons:
- Requires assembly
- Small engraving area
- Cannot be used on metal or glass
3. TEN-HIGH CO2 Laser Engraver Machine with Exhaust Fan USB Port
The TEN-HIGH CO2 engrave machine is a user-friendly laser cutting machine ideal and safe for home use.
Why We Like the TEN-HIGH CO2:
The desktop laser engraving machine is exceedingly accurate, with an accuracy of 0.15 mm.
- Display Panel
The CNC display panel makes the machine easy to use.
- Speed
The machine can engrave up to 500 mm per second and cut up to 3 mm per second.
- Temperature Control Display
You never have to wonder what the temperature is. The cooling water temperature is always displayed.
Pros and Cons of the TEN-HIGH CO2:
Pros:
- Engraving Speed: 0-500 mm/s
- 400 mm x 300 mm engraving area
- Red-light positioning system
- Dual exhaust
- Automatic lifting height
- Air assist
- Cutting Speed: 0-30 mm/s
- Temperature control display
- Display panel
- USB port
- Safety interlock switch
Cons:
- Cannot engrave metal
- Only works with CarelLASER and CorelDRAW
- Can only engrave flat surfaces
4. NEJE 3 N30820 Laser Engraver and Cutter Machine
The small laser is tiny but powerful. It was designed to be lightweight and portable while providing professional results.
Why We Like the NEJE 3 N30820:
This machine is the perfect size for home crafters looking to work on small DIY projects.
- Easy Installation
There are only 4 screws required to complete the installation.
- Built-in MEMS sensor protection
When the desktop laser engraving machine is accidentally touched, the machine will automatically stop working.
- Bluetooth Wireless Create
You can control this machine wirelessly using the NEJE wireless app.
Pros and Cons of the the NEJE 3 N30820:
Pros:
- Android APP control
- 360° Engraving
- APP wireless control
- Built-in MEMS sensor protection
- High Speed
- Off-line and APP wireless control
- Vertical engraving
- Bluetooth Wireless Create
Cons:
- Small working area of 170 mm x 170 mm
5. Aufero Portable Laser Engraving Machine
This laser was designed with beginners in mind. However, it is good enough for experienced users as well.
Why We Like the Aufero Portable Laser Engraving Machine:
The Aufero Portable Laser sets up quickly and is very easy to use.
- Pre-assembled
The laser is pre-assembled and sets up in minutes.
- Software Compatibility
The Aufero Laser 1 can is compatible with various mature engraving software programs. It supports BMP, JPG, PNG, JPEG, SVG, etc., file formats
- Dual Eye Protection
This Aufero machine has a protective cover that filters 97% of UV light. When using this laser engraver, you do not need to wear goggles.
Pros and Cons the Aufero Portable Laser Engraving Machine:
Pros:
- Exposure duration detection and limitation
- Laser beam safety guard
- Broad compatibility
- Power control system
- 9th Generation motherboard
- Active position protection
- Advanced firmware
- Eye protection design
- Pre-assembled package
Cons:
- Free software is subpar
6. Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3D Printer
There is no reason to buy a laser engraver and a 3D printer. The Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3D printer combines the best of both machines.
Why We Like the Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3D printer:
This one machine can be used for 3D printing, laser engraving, cutting, and CNC carving.
- CNC Carving & 3D Printing
The machine does not only engrave and cut, but you can also use it to create 3D artwork.
- Built-in Camera
The built-in camera means you will spend less time focusing the laser and positioning your artwork.
- Aluminium Grid Table
The aluminum grid table was designed to allow all the smoke to be fully exhausted while leaving space for laser penetration.
Pros and Cons of the Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3D printer:
Pros:
- Cutting
- Aluminium grid table
- 3D Printing
- Built-in Camera
- Power-loss recovery
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Smart touchscreen
- Engraving
- CNC Carving
Cons:
- Creative software is not included
7. NEJE 3 Max A40640 Laser Engraving Machine
The NEJE 3 Max is equipped with the A40640 module. The machine has 2-beam laser diode engraving and cutting module. It is able to cut wood up to 20 mm thick.
Why We Like the NEJE 3 Max:
This machine has a large engraving area, giving you the ability to customize a wide range of projects.
- Large Engraving Area
The working size of the NEJE 3 Max is 460 x 810 mm (18.11 inches x 31.88 inches).
- Hybrid Frame
The NEJE 3 has a hybrid frame making it stable, sturdy, and lightweight.
- Compatibility
NEJE 3 Max laser engraver is compatible with Win 7, Win 8, XP, Win10, and Mac.
Pros and Cons of the NEJE 3 Max:
Pros:
- All aluminium alloy and PC material hybrid frame
- Module height adjuster
- Low-light settings
- High temperature resistant window
- 460 x 810 mm work area
- Easy maintenance
- High precision
- 32-bit MCU
- Built-in MEMS roll protection
Cons:
- Does not work with the iPhone
8. ATOMSTACK A5 Pro Laser Engraver for Wood
The ATOMSTACK A5 Pro has an ultra-fine laser that can cup wood and acrylic up to ½” (12.7 cm) thick. It has an output power of 5.5W.
Why We Like the ATOMSTACK A5 Pro:
You can use this laser engraver with various engraving software programs, such as LaserGRBL, LightBurn, LaserGRBL, and LightBurn. It supports NC, BMP, JPG, PNG, DXF, etc. file formats.
- One-piece Screw Design
The one-piece screw design provides for a more accurate and efficient cutting process.
- Heat Dissipation System
Prolong the life of your laser with the built-in heat dissipation system.
- Large Engraving Area
The laser engraver has a large 410 x 400 mm (16.14 inches x 15.74 inches) engraving area.
Pros and Cons of the ATOMSTACK A5 Pro:
Pros:
- Eye protection design
- Precision Scale Line Axis
- Ultra-fine compression laser
- Wide compatibility
- Large engraving area
- USB connection
- Fixed-focus laser
- Heat dissipation system
- One-piece screw design
Cons:
- Slow
- Stainless steel and metal are not recommended
9. ORTUR 24V Laser Engraver 2 Pro-S2-LF
The ORTUR Laser Master 2 PRO was designed to work smoothly while creating delicate details.
Why We Like the ORTUR 24V Laser Engraver:
The laser engraver from Ortur is accurate and fast.
- Active power-off function
If the machine notices an abnormal power supply, it will turn the machine off.
- 32-bit MCU
This laser engraver has the most advanced 32 bit firmware, making the machine fast.
- Compatibility
This machine is compatible with Windows operating systems from XP to W10, Linux, and Mac. It supports JPG, PNG, BMP, DXF, NC, etc. files.
Pros and Cons of the ORTUR 24V Laser Engraver:
Pros:
- Power safety control system
- Laser beam safety guard
- Exposure duration detection and limitation
- Scale mark auxiliary use
- Full metal body structure
- Large engraving area
- 32-bit MCU
- Active position protection
- Fuse overcurrent protection function
- Active power-off function
Cons:
- Hard to assemble
- Learning curve
10. OMTech CO2 Desktop K40 Laser Engraving Machine
The OMTech laser engraver has a large 12” x 8” (300 mm x 200 mm) engraving surface and powerful internal components. You can use the machine to cut and engrave a wide variety of non-metal materials.
Why We Like the OMTech laser engraver:
This laser engraver and cutter has a stability clamp and level board so you can work with a wide range of materials.
- Large Cutting Area
The OMTech CO2 laser engraver has a large cutting area. You can cut and engrave areas up to 8 inches x 12 inches (200 mm x 300 mm).
- Emergency Stop
This machine has an emergency stop feature that will immediately stop the machine in case of an emergency.
- Red Dot Guidance
The laser engraver has a red dot pointer mounted on the laser head. This feature helps you get the perfect positioning.
Pros and Cons of the OMTech laser engraver:
Pros:
- Water cooling system
- Convenient mobility
- Large engraving area
- Red dot guidance
- Built-in ventilation
- Removable workbed
- Digital control & temp
- Double duty work surface
- Compact engraving power
- Emergency stop
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Poorly written instructions
Our Top 3 Best Laser Engraver Machines of 2024
Best Overall
TEN-HIGH CO2 Laser Engraver Machine with Exhaust Fan USB Port
The TEN-HIGH CO2 engrave machine is a user-friendly laser cutting machine. It is a great machine for home crafters and professional artists.
Premium Choice
Glowforge Plus 3D Laser Printer – The Ultimate Hobby Laser Cutting & Engraving Machine
Glowforge has designed one of the best laser engravers on the market. It has a user-friendly interface, making the machine simple and fun to use.
Great Value
NEJE 3 N30820 Laser Engraver and Cutter Machine
The NEJE 3 Laser Engraving Machine was designed for professionals who engrave at home. The machine is small and lightweight, making it ideal for small DIY projects.
Do you enjoy making customized products? If so, consider investing in the best laser engraver.
I have searched high and low looking for the best laser engravers, so you do not have to. There are so many on the market that it is overwhelming.
What are your favorite laser engraving machines on the list? Share with us your thoughts on our Facebook Page. If you are working with woods check our review on the Best Laser Engravers for Wood and also our review on the Best Desk Top Laser Engraver Machines.
I hope my list of the best laser engravers will help you make the right choice.
